Georgia is the epitome of all things Southern. From that old hospitality to historic southern architecture and lush public squares, you’ll find it all in Georgia. If you’re headed to the Peach State, here are five great places to visit during your stay.
Atlanta
Georgia’s capital is a must for your Georgia itinerary. While Atlanta is a modern and bustling destination, you’ll still find that charming southern hospitality throughout the city. You can explore the history of America’s iconic soda at the World of Coca-Cola museum, take a studio tour at the CNN Center or see the largest dinosaur ever unearthed at the Fernbank Museum of National History. Shopping districts, Victorian architecture and award-winning restaurants round-out your stay in the ATL.
Savannah
This riverside town was Georgia’s first, and Savannah remains a tribute to Georgia’s history. Historic districts filled with pristine, preserved architecture, lush public squares and cobblestone streets are just a few of the charming sights awaiting you in Savannah. Don’t miss a river cruise or a walk under the overhanging oak trees at Forsyth Park.
Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
In Southern Georgia, you’ll find one of the country’s oldest freshwater systems: Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. Whether you hike or canoe your way through the swamps and forests of Okefenokee, you’re sure to see plenty of local wildlife. Alligators, herons, toads and turtles are just a few of the native creatures you’ll find, so don’t forget the camera.
Columbus
In Columbus, you can take your pick of kayaking down the Chattahoochee River, bicycling through the historic districts or indulging a love of art and culture at the museums and galleries sprinkled throughout the city. Rent a segway and glide through the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, or spend a day in the metaphorical shoes of an astronaut at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, which includes a planetarium and flight simulations.
There’s nothing small about Stone Mountain. This massive dome is actually the largest exposed granite dome you’ll find in North America, and its carving of Confederate heroes Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis and Stonewall Jackson is also the largest bas-relief in the world. You can take a cable car up to the summit for spectacular views of the Atlanta skyline, then walk down the mountain along a scenic one-mile trail. After nightfall, the dome lights up with a laser show set to music and fireworks.
(Main image: BenSanborn used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
